April 25, 2014

Federal judge approves American-DOJ settlement agreement

A federal judge gave her final approval of American Airlines' settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice on Friday.

Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly evaluated comments filed during a public comment period in her ruling but found that the agreement, which forces American to divest take-off and landing slots and gates at several airports, should be approved.

"The Court concludes that the proposed Final Judgment is in the public interest," Kollar-Kotelly wrote in her final ruling.

American said it was pleased with the court's ruling.

"Together, American Airlines and US Airways have created a strong global competitor that provides better access to more destinations than we could ever provide independently," the company said in a statement. "We’ve already begun to deliver significant benefits to our customers, our employees and the communities we serve with an expanded network, enhanced codesharing, reciprocal awards redemptions and a better product."